What to Do If You're Bitten by a Dog in Los Angeles

Being attacked by a dog is a traumatic and frightening experience. You may feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do. However, it's crucial to act promptly to protect your health and legal rights. Here's a step-by-step guide to follow if you're bitten by a dog in Los Angeles:

1. Stay Calm and Get to Safety:

• Prioritize your personal well-being.

• Try to remain calm to avoid further agitating the animal.

• If the dog is running loose, don't attempt to catch it.

• Move to a safe location and call for help.

2. Contact the Authorities:

• For severe injuries, call 911 for an ambulance.

• Contact your local animal control to report the attack. This is essential, even if the owner is present.

• Animal control can capture loose aggressive dogs and may quarantine dogs to check for rabies.

3. Identify the Dog Owner:

• While still at the scene, obtain the dog owner's name, address, and contact information.

• Ask for the dog's vaccination records.

• If possible, get the homeowner's insurance information, as it typically covers dog bite injuries in California.

4. Document the Attack:

• Before leaving the scene, document everything:

  • Location, time, and date of the attack.

  • Description of the dog.

  • Owner's information.

  • Photographs of the scene and your injuries.

5. Seek Medical Care:

• Get immediate medical attention for any bite that breaks the skin.

• Dog bites carry a high risk of infection.

• Dogs can transmit serious diseases, including rabies.

• You may need vaccinations, sutures, surgery, or antibiotics.

• Keep copies of all medical bills and records.

6. File an Insurance Claim:

• Contact the dog owner's homeowner's insurance company, if available.

• Explain what happened, but do not admit fault.

• Be aware that insurance companies may deny claims if they believe you provoked the dog or were on private property without permission.

• Be aware that the first settlement offer may be too low.

7. Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer:

• A Los Angeles dog bite injury lawyer can help you seek fair compensation for:

  • Medical expenses.

  • Lost wages.

  • Pain and suffering.

  • Other related losses.

• An experienced attorney can help you pursue maximum financial compensation from the pet owner or their insurance company.

• Request a free consultation with a lawyer to discuss your case.

If you're located in Downey, CA or South East Los Angeles contact the Law Office of Arta Wildeboer in Downey, CA for a free consultation. (562) 608-8887